‘Not an easy decision’: FSU Student Union reopened Monday for two hours with a moment of silence
The student union opened from 3 to 5 p.m. exclusively for students and staff
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) - Eleven days after the deadly shooting at Florida State University’s student union, the building reopened Monday with a ceremony and a moment of silence for the people who were hurt and killed.
“This was not easy to figure out what to do,” FSU President Richard McCullough said during the ceremony. “Deciding to reopen the union came after conversations with hundreds and hundreds of students.”
Victoria Perree is a senior at FSU. She attended the moment of silence and said she is grateful for the chance to re-enter the union in her final days as a student.
“Especially for us seniors, like, this was really impactful,” Perree said. “I’m really glad they did something that was purposeful.”
Hundreds of people were in attendance, including local law enforcement, who received applause as they joined the crowd. McCullough recognized them for their service and quick actions on April 17. In addition to the moment of silence, there were prayers from a pastor and a rabbi.
“This is hard to put into words or even think about that tragedy,” McCullough said. “The students’ strength is unbelievable.”
During the ceremony, students were encouraged to enter the union at their own pace, if at all.
“We invite those who are ready to join us in the union, and we recognize that not everyone is ready to do that,” Provost James Clark said. “We deeply respect the decision to wait a bit longer as a way to take care of yourself. Make the decision that serves you best in this moment.”
After the moment of silence, students enjoyed free food from several food trucks, along with games and prizes on the lawn in front of the union.
“We can’t let hatred and an act of violence change the place that we have,” McCullough said. “It can change us, of course, but it doesn’t define who we are. What defines us is how we respond, and I’ve seen that response.”
The student union closed at 5 p.m. on Monday. University officials said operating hours will be released at a later time.
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